Why Is My AC Leaking Water? | Common Causes & Troubleshooting Tips
Leaking AC? Don’t wait—call McMullen’s 24/7 at +1 (403) 342-1155 for emergency repairs.
When the summer heat hits Alberta, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important systems in your home or business. But if you notice water pooling around your AC unit, that’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a warning sign of a potentially serious problem. Leaks can quickly lead to water damage, mould growth, and costly system failures if not addressed immediately. Whether you manage a busy restaurant, operate a medical facility, or are simply trying to keep your home comfortable, a leaking air conditioner requires urgent attention.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water? Top Causes
1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can clog your AC’s condensate drain line. When this happens, the water that’s supposed to drain away from the unit has nowhere to go—leading to leaks inside your building.
Pro Tip: Routine maintenance, including drain line flushing, can prevent clogs before they cause water damage.
2. Dirty Air Filters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the evaporator coil to get too cold and eventually freeze. When it thaws, excess water can overflow the drain pan.
Prevention Tip: Check and replace your AC filters every 1 to 3 months, especially during Alberta’s dusty seasons.
3. Frozen Evaporator Coil
Low refrigerant levels, dirty coils, or poor airflow can cause your evaporator coil to freeze. When it melts, it can overwhelm your drain system and leak water around the unit.
Warning: If you notice ice buildup on your AC, turn it off immediately and call for professional service.
4. Low Refrigerant Levels
When your system is low on refrigerant, the pressure inside the AC drops. This can cause the evaporator coil to freeze and eventually leak water when it defrosts.
Note: Low refrigerant usually indicates a leak somewhere in the system, which requires professional repair.
5. Damaged Drain Pan
Older units—especially those over 10 years—may have a rusted or cracked drain pan that can’t properly collect and drain condensate.
Solution: A technician can inspect and replace the pan to prevent ongoing leaks.
6. Improper Installation
If your AC unit isn’t level or properly installed, water can flow incorrectly and overflow instead of draining.
Reminder: Always hire certified HVAC technicians—like the experts at McMullen’s—to install or replace your cooling system.
How to Troubleshoot a Leaking AC Yourself
- Check your air filters and replace if dirty
- Inspect the area around your indoor unit for blockages
- Look for visible ice buildup on the unit
- Ensure your thermostat is set correctly to avoid overcooling
- If you can locate the condensate drain, gently flush it with warm water or vinegar
If these steps don’t solve the issue—or if you see significant water pooling—it’s time to call in the professionals.
How Regular AC Maintenance Prevents Water Leaks
The best way to avoid leaks and costly breakdowns is with routine maintenance. During an AC tune-up, McMullen’s technicians inspect your system thoroughly, clean the coils, flush the drain line, check refrigerant levels, and spot small issues before they turn into major problems.
An AC tune-up not only keeps your unit running efficiently but also extends its lifespan—whether you’re cooling a commercial space or your home.
Why You Should Fix a Leaking AC Immediately in Alberta
Ignoring a leaking AC can lead to:
- Property damage from water pooling around floors, walls, or ceilings
- Mould and mildew growth
- System failure requiring full replacement
- Business interruptions or uncomfortable home conditions
Especially with Alberta’s hot summers and strict building regulations, prompt attention keeps you compliant, comfortable, and protected.
Book Professional AC Leak Repair in Red Deer and Central Alberta
If your air conditioner is leaking, don’t wait for more serious damage. McMullen’s Refrigeration & Heating provides expert AC repair, maintenance, and emergency service in Red Deer and throughout Central Alberta.
Call us today: +1 (403) 342-1155
